Delhi‘s historic Sheesh Mahal has reopened to the public after nearly four centuries of closure. The Sheesh Mahal reopening represents one of the most important restorations among historic places in India. Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat officially inaugurated the 17th-century Mughal pavilion in north Delhi’s Shalimar Bagh this week.
A Royal Retreat Returns to Life
The Sheesh Mahal’s history dates back to 1653. Izz-un-Nissa Begum, wife of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, built it as a tribute to Kashmir’s famed Shalimar Bagh. Among the finest examples of royal Mughal palaces, the site served as a royal retreat. It notably hosted Emperor Aurangzeb’s coronation ceremony in 1658.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has reopened it with guided public access for the first time in over 370 years. Over the centuries, the palace had fallen into severe disrepair.
The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) carried out restoration under ASI supervision. Workers used traditional materials, including lakhauri bricks, lime surkhi, and natural binders like gud and belgiri.
Photo from the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Official Twitter Account
Architectural Marvel and Modern Purpose
The palace’s design perfectly reflects Mughal architecture in India. The building features bricks and lime plaster, with walls displaying beautiful paintings of flowers and plants. The main pavilion includes a water channel running through it—a classic Mughal feature. The restoration also brought back the Mughal-style ‘char bagh’ landscape design.
The project embraces modern community engagement. Two heritage cottages became a Readers Café Corner and Café Shalimar, blending historical preservation with contemporary spaces.
The restoration project began after Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena visited in January 2024. Around 30 artisans, mostly from Rajasthan, worked for months to restore intricate carvings.
Photo from the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Official Twitter Account
Historical Significance and Legacy of Sheesh Mahal
Shalimar Bagh has witnessed many historical periods. During the British era, it served as a summer retreat for the British Resident in Delhi. During the 1857 Revolt, British forces used it as strategic encampments.
The reopening shows India’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage. The restoration is part of the “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” (Development along with Heritage) campaign launched under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision.
Located in northwest Delhi near the Outer Ring Road, the site offers visitors authentic Mughal architecture in a carefully preserved setting. The Sheesh Mahal reopening adds another jewel to Delhi’s historical attractions, providing an immersive journey into India’s rich Mughal past while serving as a model for heritage conservation nationwide.
Stay informed with the latest travel news. Sign up on OneAir for FREE and visit our travel blog for expert insights, travel tips, and industry news.
*Banner photo from the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Official Twitter Account
US
India